Credit: New Directions

Editor’s Note: This was updated on Jan. 29, 2026, to include information about the Girl Power scholarship.

MOUNT VERNON — New Directions will host the fifth annual EmpowHER event on March 13 at Kenyon’s Lowry Center.

The evening honors International Women’s Day by celebrating, uplifting, and amplifying the voices of women and girls in Knox County.

“Empowerment begins when women are seen, heard, and valued,  showing up boldly as their authentic selves,” New Directors Executive Director Lindsey Lamp said.

“When women use their voice and lead with authenticity, they don’t just change their own lives, they transform families, workplaces, and entire communities. This is what EmpowHER embodies.”

This year’s theme is “Vogue Presence: Where Your Voice Leads, Change Follows.”

The evening begins at 5 p.m. with an opportunity to mingle and network with women-owned businesses, community entrepreneurs, and each other.

A buffet-style dinner begins at 6:30, with a presentation and award program at 7:45.

Honoring remarkable women in Knox County

New Directions is accepting nominations for five awards:

•EmpowHER Award: Celebrate a woman of inspiration whose achievements and influence empower others.
•Heart Award: Nominate a dedicated front-line worker who exemplifies compassion and resilience.
•Grit and Grace Award: Honor a single mom who demonstrates unwavering strength and perseverance.
•Raising the Bar Award: Recognize a woman with 20+ years of experience who has consistently set the standard for excellence in her field.
•Vision Builder Award: Nominate a woman with less than 10 years of experience who is breaking barriers and making a powerful impact.

Nominations for the Girl Power Scholarship are also being accepted.

New Directions established the scholarship to recognize and uplift Knox County high school senior girls who use their girl power to positively influence, inspire, and empower other girls.

One $2,500 scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior girl to support her continued education.

High school senior girls are encouraged to apply by submitting a reflective essay using one of the four provided quotes. In your reflection, share your strengths and how you use your voice, leadership, and actions to influence and empower the girls around you.

For more information about the scholarship, email info@newdirectionsshelter.org.

“Vogue Presence is about recognizing the women who show up with courage and intention every day,” Lamp said. “Nominations are an invitation to say: I see you, your voice matters, and your presence has made a difference. As you complete the nomination form, you are using  your voice to honor hers.”

All women who live or work in Knox County are eligible for nomination. To submit a nomination, visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2026EmpowHER and fill out the survey.

Nominations must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on Feb. 6.